Canon T3i Review

Canon T3i
The T3i packs high end video capability in a consumer point-and-shoot - photo Canon

I realize a review of the Canon EOS Rebel T3i is a bit belated, but it’s only been out since February and wanted to see what kind of market buzz it would generate.  So far, the buzz meter over the summer has been near zero.  The T3i is a camera that can best be described as “odd” in a number of ways.

In spite of the lack of enthusiasm and a few design quirks, the camera gets good reviews from owners.  Canon seems to be trying to hide the fact it comes with an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.  They’re all about mentioning the megapixel rating and the fact the T3i is packing the Digic 4 image processor, but I had to dig through the detailed comparison specs to get Canon to admit to the APS-C chip dimension.  A strange oversight considering how many fine cameras in the Canon line use that particular chip.

Outside that the T3i is a consumerized version of the 60D, with more features for people who spend most of their time shooting on auto.

Another surprise in the T3i are the video specs, which are similar to their higher end models.  1080p HD at 24, 25 and 30 fps.  Maybe Canon envisioned the T3i as a “B” camera for an independent filmmaker using a Canon 7D with a PL mount so they can drag out their cine glass. Odd that Canon would put so much video capability into a mid-range DSLR.

At $700 for the body only, I’d be tempted to lock one for a wide coverage shot on a video shoot and keep in the bag as a spare body for weddings.

Here’s a hands-on review:

For more info check our the T3i on Snapsort, or check out these comparisons.